Liley’s reputation built on land-use law

As a principal with Liley, Rogers, Martell LLC, Lucia Liley is a highly regarded land use, real estate and business attorney in Northern Colorado. Early on, the law was clearly the perfect career for her.

“My mother always said I started speaking in full sentences before I could walk. Growing up, people said I ought to be a lawyer, perhaps because I loved to argue about anything and everything with my six siblings,” said Liley. “It’s a trait I put to better use as a debater in high school and college.”

After graduating from Colorado State University with high distinction, Liley obtained her law degree from the University of Colorado law school and began practicing in Fort Collins.

At that time there were no women practicing law in town, and only three in Larimer County.

She considers her survival and success in the field one of her greatest accomplishments, considering that at the time her peers were neither welcoming nor supportive.

She also believes strongly in maintaining cordial relationships with a wide variety of people under sometimes very contentious circumstances.

One way to do that, Liley says, is through humor, and keeping things in perspective.

“It will keep you from becoming too cynical and will keep you physically and mentally healthier,” said Liley.

This bit of advice, as well as learning to trust your instincts, came in handy, Liley said, during a major land-use case in Fort Collins.

Although she’d known people involved from previous projects, Liley had a hunch this case might not be successful. It didn’t, ending in foreclosure.

This experience was eye-opening for Liley. “Trust your instincts, remember that failure is part of life and don’t dwell on or spend too much time regretting what can not be changed.”

Having practiced law in the area since the mid-1970s, Liley eventually plans to transition from full-time to part-time work.

Her goal is to focus on her favorite area of law ­— downtown redevelopment in communities in Northern Colorado. She’s also looking forward to spending time with her large immediate and extended family at her home in Fort Collins.

“The older one gets, the more you realize that relationships are the things that glue everything else together,” said Liley.

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